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UK Not Providing Military Support To Israel Amid Rising Iran Tensions, Reports Say

Britain is not currently aiding Israel militarily following Iran tensions, but urges restraint and diplomacy, reports say.

Britain is currently not offering military assistance to Israel in the wake of Iran’s retaliation to overnight Israeli strikes, according to reports from The Times and Sky News on Friday.

The Times, citing defence sources, confirmed that the UK was not providing any military support to Israel as of Friday morning. Sky News also reported that British warplanes were not involved in defending Israeli airspace, although it noted the situation remains fluid and this position could change depending on developments.

This contrasts with Britain’s response in October 2024, when Iran launched ballistic missiles at Israel. At that time, the UK deployed two fighter jets and an air-to-air refuelling tanker as part of efforts to prevent escalation. However, the jets reportedly did not engage any targets.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for restraint from both sides and urged a return to diplomacy to avoid further escalation. Government officials emphasised that the UK was not involved in Israel’s overnight strikes against Iran.

The UK Foreign Office and Ministry of Defence have not yet responded to media requests for comments regarding any possible future involvement in supporting Israel’s defence.

As tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, Britain’s current stance underscores a cautious approach focused on de-escalation and diplomatic resolution.

Melissa Enoch

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